Treatment of Egyptian-Canadian journalist held in Cairo takes turn for worse

The family of an Egyptian-Canadian journalist imprisoned in Cairo says the way the man is being treated by local authorities has suddenly taken a turn for the worse.

Mohamed Fahmy’s family says the 40-year-old was supposed to be taken to hospital to have a shoulder injury attended to on Sunday following a request by Canadian officials.

But Fahmy’s brother says that hospital trip did not happen, and instead Fahmy’s blanket, a jacket and even his watch were taken from him as he continues to languish in a cold, insect-ridden cell.

Sherif Fahmy says the family is shocked at the sudden change.

He also says the local prosecutor’s office has extended his brother’s detention for another 15 days as the journalist continues to be interrogated on allegations of broadcasting false news.

Mohamed Fahmy and two colleagues were all working for satellite news broadcaster Al Jazeera English when they were arrested on Dec. 29.